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Memories & Candles

“I only knew Richards for three years after joining the Mens Bible Study Group at Johns Island Presbyterian Church. I had the pleasure to sit next to...Read More »
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1 of 8 | Posted by: Ronald Schildge - Seabrook Island, SC

“In memory of a great man who proudly served his country, his God, his community, his family and his friends. Rest in eternal peace.
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2 of 8 | Posted by: Linda L. Marshall - Charleston, SC

“Richards Roddey was a remarkable, wise and great man. He was genuine, exceedingly accomplished and yet humble; always an American Patriot and a...Read More »
”
3 of 8 | Posted by: Linda L. Marshall - Charleston, SC

“Heartfelt condolences to the family. It was a privilege for me to know Richards. He will be remembered until the remainder of my life.
”
5 of 8 | Posted by: Franz Xaver Meier - Charleston, SC

“Richards was a long time customer of mine at the barbershop. What a delightful fellow! Truly one of the most interesting people I've had the pleasure...Read More »
”
6 of 8 | Posted by: Rusty Burbage - Boca Raton, FL

“A wonderful friend, USNA classmate and U.S. Air Force brother. You will be missed by so many of us. Continued strength to Gail and the entire Roddey...Read More »
”
7 of 8 | Posted by: Wayne Messner - Alexandria, VA

“My condolences to the family. May the wonderful memories of your loved one comfort you until God's promises are fulfilled. Matthew 5:5
”
8 of 8 | Posted by: A friend

ColonelJohnGardiner RichardsRoddey, United States Air Force Retired, died in Charleston, SC on Sunday, February 11, 2018 the day before his 81st birthday. His devoted wife of 56 years, Gail Roddey, was at his side.

Richards was born in Rock Hill, SC to John and Jean Richards Roddey. He attended Winthrop Training School followed by the United States Naval Academy (1959). He was commissioned and served as a fighter pilot in the United States Air Force, flying several tours in Vietnam. He earned several awards including the Distinguished Flying Cross and the Air Medal for "heroism in aerial combat". He continued in the Air Force Reserve as a pilot, then transitioned to Intelligence and retired in 1989. He was awarded the Legion of Merit for his exceptional performance in Intelligence. Upon leaving active duty in 1965, he started a 32 year career with North Carolina National Bank/Bank of America, serving in Charlotte and London, where he retired as Senior Executive Managing Director in charge of European Banking. He and Gail enjoyed retirement in Kiawah Island, SC.

Richards served as a deacon and elder at Myers Park Presbyterian Church, at St. Columba's Presbyterian Church in London and at John's Island Presbyterian Church, where he also sang in the choir. He was elected as elder emeritus at John's Island Presbyterian Church. Richards served on several boards including the Heart & Vascular Board of MUSC, College of Charleston's Language Cultures and World Affairs and the Kiawah Conservancy. He had a passion for USNA sports, history, hunting, fine food and drink, the Redskins, the Dodgers, Chelsea Football Club, and soccer refereeing. Most of all, he enjoyed his family and many friends and was always quick with a story.

A service of worship, remembrance and celebration will be held at 11am on Friday, February 16, 2018 at Johns Island Presbyterian Church with a reception following in the fellowship hall. Interment will take place at 1pm on Saturday, February 17, 2018 at Liberty Hill Presbyterian Churchyard, Liberty Hill, SC with a reception following in the fellowship hall.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be sent to Johns Island Presbyterian Church, 2550 Bohicket Rd, Johns Island, SC 29455.

Memories & Candles

I only knew Richards for three years after joining the Mens Bible Study Group at Johns Island Presbyterian Church. I had the pleasure to sit next to him and could actually feel the strength that his faith filled him with. I thought that I was very familiar with the Bible but after only a short time I could only stand in awe of his knowledge. He became a mentor to me and I will treasure his memory forever.

Posted by: Ronald Schildge - Seabrook Island, SC Feb 20, 2018

In memory of a great man who proudly served his country, his God, his community, his family and his friends. Rest in eternal peace.

Posted by: Linda L. Marshall - Charleston, SC - Friend Feb 17, 2018

Richards Roddey was a remarkable, wise and great man. He was genuine, exceedingly accomplished and yet humble; always an American Patriot and a soldier for God. Richards did the right thing whether it was noticed or not. He had courage, strong convictions and a tender heart. Richards lived his life as we all would hope to live. He was well-loved, respected and successful. His many friends held Richards in highest esteem and truly valued his friendship. Richards was a wonderful,

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Richards Roddey was a remarkable, wise and great man. He was genuine, exceedingly accomplished and yet humble; always an American Patriot and a soldier for God. Richards did the right thing whether it was noticed or not. He had courage, strong convictions and a tender heart. Richards lived his life as we all would hope to live. He was well-loved, respected and successful. His many friends held Richards in highest esteem and truly valued his friendship. Richards was a wonderful, loving husband and father. He adored his beloved wife, Gail. Although their interests varied, they forged a dedicated, resilient, loving partnership. Richards was devoted to and cherished his family. He taught his four children and twelve grandchildren his life lessons, and instilled his uncommon integrity through ethics and values. His family will prove to be his profound legacy.Richards was a well-read, brilliant man. He loved sharing his expert knowledge of the Bible, American history, military history, his political opinions and economic forecasts. He savored single malt Scotch, fine wines, robust coffee and good food. He also enjoyed tennis and refereeing soccer.Richards always seemed appreciative and grateful for his many life blessings. I met Richards twenty-four years ago in 1994, as we were Rhetts Bluff neighbors on Kiawah. Richards was easy to talk with and always had a story to share. He was the quintessential Southern gentleman. I have countless treasured memories of happy times enjoyed with Richards and Gail.I am thankful Richards Roddey touched my life. With his blue eyes, easy smile, and effortless laugh--he was truly charming. His was a quick, dry wit. Richards will be remembered as a caring, faithful friend, as well as an honorable and kind Christian man.I have held dear and will miss Richards more than words can express. He will live forever in many hearts. My deepest sympathy is extended to Gail and to the entire Roddey family. May God strengthen and comfort you.

Posted by: Linda L. Marshall - Charleston, SC - Friend Feb 17, 2018

A life richly and well lived, an inspiration to all.

Posted by: Karl Munn - Rock Hill, SC - Classmate Feb 17, 2018

Heartfelt condolences to the family. It was a privilege for me to know Richards. He will be remembered until the remainder of my life.

Posted by: Franz Xaver Meier - Charleston, SC - Friend Feb 14, 2018

Richards was a long time customer of mine at the barbershop. What a delightful fellow! Truly one of the most interesting people I've had the pleasure to know. I will miss him.

Posted by: Rusty Burbage - Boca Raton, FL Feb 14, 2018

A wonderful friend, USNA classmate and U.S. Air Force brother. You will be missed by so many of us. Continued strength to Gail and the entire Roddey family.

Wayne & Jan Messner

Posted by: Wayne Messner - Alexandria, VA - Classmate Feb 13, 2018

My condolences to the family. May the wonderful memories of your loved one comfort you until God's promises are fulfilled. Matthew 5:5

Posted by: A friend Feb 13, 2018

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